Research

Hormonal

Resistance training-induced muscle hypertrophy is regulated by a core set of 141 genes, including specific regulation of mRNA 3' and 5' untranslated regions (UTRs), which directly modulate protein synthesis and lean mass gains.

To maximize muscle growth, focus on consistent resistance training. The research suggests that individual genetic responses (specifically how your body regulates gene expression via UTRs) dictate your growth potential. While you cannot change your genes, understanding that 'responders' and 'non-responders' exist at a molecular level may help manage expectations. Consistency is key, as the molecular machinery adapts to the loading stimulus.

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We discover a core of 141 genes correlated to muscle growth... Several of these genes correlate with muscle growth only at their 30 or 50 untranslated region, and a subset directly influences protein synthesis in vitro.
Tanner Stokes et al. · Cell Reports · 2020

Why this rating

High-quality within-person differential loading design with validation in independent cohorts and in vitro functional assays.

Source

Molecular Transducers of Human Skeletal Muscle Remodeling under Different Loading States

Tanner Stokes et al. · Cell Reports · 2020

DOI 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.107980

cohort · n=112Cited 52×
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DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10

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